Month: January 2026

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday said it has attached immovable assets with a current market value of Rs 400 crore belonging to Jaiprakash Sewa Sanstha and Page 3 Buildtech Private Limited in connection with an ongoing money-laundering investigation into the Jaypee group.

The agency said the attachment forms part of a money-laundering investigation involving Jaypee Infratech Ltd (JIL), Jayprakash Associates Ltd (JAL), and associated entities, related to large-scale fraud and misappropriation of funds collected from homebuyers for the Jaypee Wishtown and Jaypee Greens Projects.

ED said it initiated investigation against Jaypee group on the basis of multiple First Information Reports (FIRs) registered by the Economic Offences Wings (EOW) of Delhi and Uttar Pradesh Police, based on complaints filed by homebuyers of Jaypee Wishtown and Jaypee Greens projects, alleging criminal conspiracy, cheating, and criminal breach of trust against the JIL and JAL and their promoters and directors including Manoj Gaur.

“It has been alleged that the funds collected from thousands of homebuyers for construction and completion of residential projects were diverted for purposes other than construction, leaving the homebuyers defrauded and their projects incomplete “, said the ED.

ED investigation revealed that out of approximately Rs 14,599 crore collected by JAL and JIL from more than 25,000 homebuyers (as per claims admitted by NCLT), substantial amounts were diverted for non-construction purposes and siphoned off to related group entities, including Jaypee Sewa Sansthan (JSS), Jaypee Healthcare Ltd (JHL), and Jaypee Sports International Ltd (JSIL).

“It has also been revealed during the investigation that Manoj Gaur is the Managing Trustee of Jaypee Sewa Sansthan (JSS), which received part of the diverted funds,” said the ED.

“Further, investigation has also established diversion of assets of JIL and JAL by Manoj Gaur to other entities, including Page 3 Buildtech Private Limited, which is controlled and beneficially owned by Honey Katiyal.”

Earlier, on May 23, 2025, the ED conducted searches at 15 locations across Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, and Mumbai, including the offices and premises of Jaiprakash Associates Ltd and Jaypee Infratech Ltd.

During the searches, the ED seized a large volume of financial and digital records, along with documents evidencing offences of money laundering and the diversion of funds.

ED said its investigation has established the central role of Manoj Gaur in the planning and execution of the fund diversion through a complex web of transactions within the Jaypee Group and its associated entities.

Manoj Gaur was arrested on November 13, 2025, under Section 19 of the PMLA, 2002, after following due legal procedure. He is presently in judicial custody. (ANI)

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday said that the state government has issued directions to “set up rain shelters” on a large scale in every district, along with measures such as the distribution of woollen clothes and blankets to the needy and the lighting of bonfires in public places to provide relief during the cold and rainy conditions.

Addressing the press conference after inspecting temporary night shelters in Gorakhpur, the Chief Minister said he personally reviewed the facilities in Bargadwa and Rapti Nagar, interacted with beneficiaries, and distributed woollen clothes.

“Directions have been issued to set up rain shelters on a large scale in every district, distribute woollen clothes and blankets to the needy, and light bonfires in public places. Today, in Gorakhpur, I had the opportunity to inspect the rain shelters in Bargadwa and Rapti Nagar and distribute woollen clothes to the needy,” CM Yogi Adityanath told reporters.

The Chief Minister highlighted that 19 rain shelters are currently operational in the Gorakhpur metropolitan area, providing temporary accommodation to more than 1,000 people who were previously forced to live in the open.

“A total of 19 rain shelters are currently operational within the Gorakhpur metropolitan area, providing temporary accommodation for over a thousand needy people who were forced to live on sidewalks and railway tracks,” he said.

CM Yogi further emphasised that the shelters are being operated with a focus on safety, hygiene, and proper management, ensuring dignity and basic facilities for those seeking refuge.

“All these rain shelters are safe and are being operated in an organised manner,” he added.

However, several cities in Uttar Pradesh were also covered by a dense layer of fog, reducing visibility. For instance, a layer of fog enveloped the city of Agra in the morning. The Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, was obscured by a thick layer of fog in the town. (ANI)

An earthquake of magnitude 6.2 rattled the Philippine Sea, a statement by the National Center for Seismology (NCS) said.

The earthquake occurred at a depth of 85km.

In a post on X, the NCS said, “EQ of M: 6.2, On: 07/01/2026 08:33:00 IST, Lat: 7.27 N, Long: 126.87 E, Depth: 85 Km, Location: Philippine Sea.”

EQ of M: 6.2, On: 07/01/2026 08:33:00 IST, Lat: 7.27 N, Long: 126.87 E, Depth: 85 Km, Location: Philippine Sea.
For more information Download the BhooKamp App https://t.co/5gCOtjdtw0 @DrJitendraSingh @OfficeOfDrJS @Ravi_MoES @Dr_Mishra1966 @ndmaindia pic.twitter.com/dGBJ9lEMpB

— National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) January 7, 2026

The Philippine Sea borders the Philippines to its east, but it’s a vast part of the western Pacific Ocean, with its floor being the Philippine Sea Plate; while the Philippines has sovereign rights over its adjacent waters (the West Philippine Sea within the South China Sea), the broader Philippine Sea is a large oceanic basin shared with other nations like Japan and Taiwan.

The Philippines lies in the Pacific Ring of Fire, a tectonic belt of volcanic arcs and oceanic trenches in the Pacific Ocean.

John Dale B Dianala, assistant professor at the National Institute of Geological Sciences, the University of the Philippines in Diliman, told Al Jazeera that just by virtue of the geographic and geologic setting of the country, the Philippines is home to many onshore and offshore tectonic faults.

“The whole length of the Philippines, around 1,800km, is right along the boundary of two major tectonic plates – the Philippine Sea plate and Eurasian plate – part of the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire. These two plates, thousands of kilometres wide, have been pushing against each other for millions of years at two to three times the rate of fingernail growth,” he said.

“Each earthquake is a manifestation of the periodic release of the stress along long fractures on these plates – what geologists call ‘faults’ – which rupture several metres of movement along a fault in large earthquakes,” he further told Al Jazeera.

“When the displacement involves vertical uplift of the seafloor from an offshore fault, like in the Philippine Trench to the east of the country, the movement displaces the water column from the depths of the ocean that then propagate to the surface and coasts in the form of tsunamis. Strong shaking can also cause submarine landslides that can also trigger tsunamis,” he added. (ANI)

All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) Chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Wednesday sharply criticised the demolition drive carried out by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) near Faiz-e-Elahi Masjid at Turkman Gate on Wednesday, alleging procedural lapses and loss to Waqf property.

Reacting to the demolition drive, Owaisi told ANI, “The fact is that this whole land belongs to Waqf. On 12th November, the Delhi HC indeed gave a judgment. The surprising thing is that the petitioner, Save India Foundation, with an RSS background, went to court. The court ordered a survey, but in this Waqf was not a party.”

“The Delhi Waqf Board should have become a party in the case. The Delhi Waqf Board should have filed a review petition in court. As a result, the court took a wrong decision,” he added.

Owaisi added that the land dispute has historical roots, saying, “The critical point is that in 1947, this place was a mosque. They clearly had no regard for the Places of Worship Act, 1991, a law passed in Parliament. Waqf has suffered a loss. What has happened is wrong. Delhi Waqf Board and its managing committee should approach the Supreme Court and state all facts and get the status quo.”

The MCD on Wednesday conducted a demolition drive in encroached areas near Faiz-e-Elahi Masjid, Turkman Gate, and Ramlila Maidan, following a Delhi High Court order, in the early hours of January 7, 2026. During the drive, stone-pelting incidents were reported. Delhi Police said five people were detained after around 25-30 individuals allegedly pelted stones at police and MCD officials. Five police personnel suffered minor injuries and were treated at a nearby hospital, according to DCP (Central) Nidhin Valsan. Police said prior coordination meetings were held with local stakeholders, including the Aman Committee, but a “few miscreants” attempted to disturb peace.

Separately, Owaisi also reacted to the Supreme Court’s denial of bail to Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam, saying, “It is surprising and shocking that these two people have not got bail.”

He was responding after the apex court granted bail to Gulfisha Fatima, Meeran Haider, Shifa Ur Rehman, and Mohd. Saleem Khan and Shadab Ahmad, while refusing relief to Khalid and Imam in the alleged conspiracy case linked to the 2020 north-east Delhi riots. (ANI)

In a historic moment for Ranveer Singh’s ‘Dhurandhar’, the film has rewritten the box office books by beating ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule’ to become the highest-grossing Hindi film of all time.

According to veteran trade expert Taran Adarsh, ‘Dhurandhar’ surpassed the lifetime business of the Allu Arjun film, taking the total collection to Rs 831.40 crore in its fifth week.

“This is THE biggest moment in the HISTORY of #Hindi film business. Till not long ago, surpassing the lifetime business of #Pushpa2 #Hindi – the highest-grossing film in the #Hindi market – seemed unthinkable. But records are meant to be challenged… and shattered – and #Dhurandhar has done exactly that. #Dhurandhar has finally overtaken the lifetime business of #Pushpa2 #Hindi, emerging as the highest-grossing #Hindi film of all time on its fifth Tuesday [Day 33],” Taran Adarsh wrote in an X post.

On the heels of the landmark achievement, Yash Raj Films has issued a statement, hailing the film for setting a new benchmark for Indian cinema.

“DHURANDHAR is not a film… it’s a milestone moment in Indian cinema that will be remembered forever. Congratulations to Aditya Dhar and Jio Studios for becoming the highest grossing Indian film of all time (In a Single language). As the captain of the ship, Aditya Dhar’s clarity of purpose, fearless storytelling and unwavering commitment to excellence have set a new benchmark for Indian cinema. We also congratulate every cast member and technician of this brilliant film for giving their all. You are the Dhurandhars who made the thought of the film explode so loudly and so gloriously on the big screen. Thank you for giving us cinema that inspires us to strive forward in the pursuit of creative excellence,” YRF said in the statement.

While fans have already been celebrating ‘Dhurandhar’ and its thunderous run at the box office, lead star Ranveer Singh also couldn’t help but express great pride.

In response to YRF’s high words of praise, Ranveer wrote, “My beloved Alma Mater. only ever wanted to make you proud!”

Earlier this week, ‘Dhurandhar’ achieved another milestone by becoming the first Hindi film to cross the Rs 800 crore mark in India in terms of net collections.

Since its release, the film has been receiving widespread praise from critics, industry insiders, and audiences alike.

Directed by Aditya Dhar, ‘Dhurandhar’ features Ranveer Singh in the lead role, with a powerful ensemble cast including Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal, and R Madhavan in pivotal roles.

The film is planned as a two-part franchise, with the sequel scheduled for release during Eid 2026. (ANI)

Bollywood diva Bipasha Basu turned a year older today, receiving heartfelt wishes and greetings from her friends, family, and well-wishers.

Taking a moment, her husband, actor Karan Singh Grover, also extended a warm message to his “most favourite person”, pouring out his heart on social media.

“To my most favourite person in the whole wide world, my bestest friend in the whole wide world, the most patient person in the whole wide world, the one I love the most in the whole wide world, to the most beautiful girl in the whole wide world, to my whole world….wish you a very happy birthday my monkey,” Karan wrote in the caption.

Celebrating his wife’s special day, the actor expressed his love, “May you shine brighter with every passing year! I love you so much. #monkeylove.”

In an adorable addition, Karan included a picture of Bipasha with their daughter, Devi.

Reacting to the post, Bipasha wrote, “TUVU.” Fans also joined to send birthday wishes to the actress.

Bipasha and Karan’s journey of love began on the set of Bhushan Patel’s film ‘Alone’ in 2015, where they first met and later tied the knot in April 2016, after a year of dating. The couple welcomed their daughter, Devi Basu Singh Grover, on November 12, 2022.

The couple is set to celebrate their 10th wedding anniversary this year, on April 30, 2026.

On the work front, Bipasha Basu has been away from films for some time now. After her daughter’s birth, she has since focused on her new role as a mother, dedicating her time to raising Devi.

Karan Singh Grover was last seen in Siddharth Anand’s ‘Fighter’, co-starring Hrithik Roshan, Deepika Padukone, and Anil Kapoor, among others. (ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday held a telephonic conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to convey New Year greetings.

The two also exchanged views on the regional situation.

In a post on X, he said, “Glad to speak with my friend, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and convey New Year greetings to him and the people of Israel. We discussed ways to further strengthen the India-Israel Strategic Partnership in the year ahead. We also exchanged views on the regional situation and reaffirmed our shared resolve to fight terrorism with greater determination.”

This is the first direct conversation between the two leaders since the start of 2026.

PM Modi, on December 11, received a phone call from Netanyahu, during which the two leaders reviewed the progress of the India-Israel Strategic Partnership and reaffirmed their shared stance of zero tolerance towards terrorism.

According to an official statement, PM Modi and Netanyahu expressed satisfaction with the steady advancement of bilateral cooperation and agreed to deepen collaboration across key areas for mutual benefit.

PM Modi reiterated India’s support for efforts aimed at achieving a lasting and just peace in the Middle East, including the early implementation of the Gaza Peace Plan. Both leaders strongly condemned terrorism in all forms and agreed to remain in close contact.

Providing details of the discussion, PM Modi wrote on X, “Spoke with my friend Prime Minister Netanyahu. We reviewed progress in the India-Israel Strategic Partnership and agreed to further strengthen our cooperation. Also reaffirmed our shared commitment to zero tolerance for terrorism. India supports all efforts aimed at achieving a just and durable peace in the region.”

The call came at a time when Netanyahu indicated that the second phase of the US-backed Gaza ceasefire plan could begin “very shortly”. Hamas, however, claimed Israeli “violations” and urged mediators to press Israel to comply with the agreement.

Netanyahu’s office also said it is working with Indian authorities to arrange a new date for his postponed visit to India. The visit, initially planned for December, was deferred without a formal explanation, though his office stressed that bilateral ties remain strong and that he has “full confidence” in India’s security under PM Modi’s leadership. (ANI)

Hockey India on Wednesday confirmed that Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren will be the Chief Guest for the upcoming Women’s Final of the Hockey India League.

Minister for Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs of Jharkhand Sudivya Kumar and International Hockey Federation (FIH) President Dato Tayyab Ikram will be the Guests of Honour and Member of the Jharkhand Legislative Assembly (MLA), Kalpana Soren will be the Distinguished Guest for the Final, scheduled to be held on January 10 at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh AstroTurf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi, as per a release.

The Final is set to be played between SG Pipers and Shrachi Bengal Tigers, who have been consistent in both attack and defence through the course of the season and will battle it out for the coveted trophy. The presence of global and national leadership at the final highlights the growing stature of the Hero Hockey India League and its impact on the development of women’s hockey in India.

Speaking on the occasion, Hockey India President and Hockey India League (HIL) Governing committee chairperson Dilip Tirkey said, “It is a matter of great pride for Hockey India to welcome Honourable Chief Minister of Jharkhand, Hemant Soren as our Chief Guest, Honourable Minister for Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs of Jharkhand Sudivya Kumar, FIH President Dato Tayyab Ikram as the Guests of Honour and Distinguished Guest MLA Kalpana Soren for the Final of the Women’s Hero Hockey India League. Their presence reflects the government’s continued support for the sport and the international recognition of the league,” as quoted from a release.

Hockey India Secretary General and Hockey India League (HIL) governing committee member Bhola Nath Singh added, “The Women’s Hero Hockey India League has been a landmark initiative in providing a strong platform for elite and emerging female hockey players. Having such distinguished dignitaries at the Final is a testament to the league’s success and its role in strengthening the future of women’s hockey in India.” (ANI)

Spain on Tuesday (local time) reiterated its firm support for Denmark and the people of Greenland, stressing that respect for national sovereignty is essential for global peace, amid remarks from the United States about acquiring the Arctic territory.

The NATO allies also issued a joint statement on Greenland.

“Spain reiterates, together with Germany, France, Italy, Poland, and the United Kingdom, its firm support for Denmark and the people of Greenland. Respect for the sovereignty of countries is essential for peace. That was the greatest lesson the 20th century left us. Let us not forget it,” the Prime Minister of Spain,Pedro Sanchez, wrote in a post on X.

The statement comes as the White House said it is considering “a range of options” to acquire Greenland, including the possible use of military force. According to CNN, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Tuesday (local time) that acquiring Greenland is viewed as a national security priority by President Donald Trump.

“President Trump has made it well known that acquiring Greenland is a national security priority of the United States, and it’s vital to deter our adversaries in the Arctic region. The President and his team are discussing a range of options to pursue this important foreign policy goal, and of course, utilizing the U.S. Military is always an option at the Commander in Chief’s disposal,” Leavitt said addressing weekly media briefing.

Amid growing concern in Europe, several NATO allies issued a joint statement reaffirming support for Denmark and Greenland and underlining the importance of collective security in the Arctic.

In the joint statement, leaders from France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, the United Kingdom and Denmark said that Arctic security remains a key priority for Europe and is critical for international and transatlantic security. They noted that NATO has clearly identified the Arctic as a priority region and that European allies have increased their presence, activities and investments to deter adversaries.

The leaders stressed that security in the Arctic must be ensured collectively, in coordination with NATO allies, including the United States, while upholding the principles of the UN Charter such as sovereignty, territorial integrity and the inviolability of borders.

“The Kingdom of Denmark – including Greenland – is part of NATO,” the statement said, adding that Greenland belongs to its people and that decisions concerning Greenland can only be taken by Denmark and Greenland.

The statement also underlined that while the United States is an essential NATO partner, cooperation must be based on mutual respect for international law and established agreements.